Trauma

Controlled fluid resuscitation when blood is not immediately available.

Traumatic injuries caused over 5 million deaths worldwide in 2010 and are projected to exceed 8 million by 2020.

Hemorrhagic shock is the leading cause of preventable death following trauma. In general, blood products are preferred for resuscitation in traumatic hemorrhage, and fluids are used with caution since excessive fluid can contribute to the triad of coagulopathy, hypothermia, and acidosis. However, in trauma patients with severe hypotension, particularly those with brain injury, rapid fluids may be necessary when blood is not available. In these patients, controlled fluid boluses may be necessary to maintain adequate perfusion.